The Defence Headquarters has called on Nigerians to disregard “malicious allegations” circulating regarding the denial of visa to some members of the delegation to the Invictus Games in Vancouver by the Canadian Embassy in Nigeria.
Director of Defence Information, Brig. Gen. Tukur Gusau, addressing claims about the visa requests for the Invictus Games in Vancouver, Canada, stated that the military received an invitation to send a team of three officers and 21 players, including a physiotherapist to participate in the games, with their accommodation and feeding to be provided by the Invictus Games Foundation.
However, the defence spokesman disclosed that only 14 members of the team were granted visas, resulting in seven promising athletes being unable to participate in the games.
Brig. Gen. Gusau said in spite of this setback, the team performed admirably, securing gold, silver, and bronze medals, showcasing Nigeria and Africa on the international stage.
Also, he highlighted the potential positive impact of the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa’s participation, especially his commitment in enhancing the morale of service personnel.
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He mentioned the construction of the Invictus Foundation Centre in Africa, aimed at providing care and mental healing for wounded service members, as one of the gains made in participating in the games.
“Furthermore, the participation of the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, would have added mental strength to our troops.
“It is on record that the chief of defence staff has initiated laudable efforts to boost morale of our service personnel who risk their lives to protect our nation and its people.
“The Invictus Foundation Centre, which is the first in Africa and currently under construction, is part of this initiative to provide care and mental healing for our wounded personnel,” Brig. Gen. Gusau added.
